Steven,
I have continued to think about your detailed critique while working -- and the other day I had a breakthrough! I took off my glasses! I am very nearsighted and I noticed that taking off my glasses allows me to see the simple shadow masses much better. Don't know if this would work for others. Of course I had to put them on again (to find my brushes
) but I think I will continue to take off my glasses from time to time to check on the shadow shapes.
I picked up a book not long ago about vision problems in artists, and the description of the nearsighted artist was so on the mark for me. The nearsighted person tends to see more detail and what is close at hand.
Thank you again for the comments. Best, Julia Morgan Scott